Food Labels and Couch Potatoes

I came across two studies lately that I thought were pretty interesting, and in the case of the second, rather funny.

The first has to do with food labels—you know, the government-mandated tables that go on all packaged food. It turns out that women who regularly read the labels on the food they buy weigh an average of nine pounds less than women who do not. Why? Well, it stands to reason that if you pay attention to what and how much you put in your mouth, you’re less likely to eat junk. Portion size, fat and calorie content as well as actual ingredients are a few of the important pieces of information found on the labels. If you need help figuring out how to make them work for you the FDA has some good resources.

The second study has to do with the tv show The Biggest Loser. I will tell you up front that I find it to be a dreadful show, so I report this to you with a certain amount of glee:

A group of researchers at the University of Alberta wanted to know if the show had an effect on viewers’ attitudes toward exercise. Contrary to what you might expect, they found that the study participants were significantly more negative about exercise after watching clips of the show than were members of the control group who watched American Idol. The reasons for this aren’t clear, but it certainly does make you go, “Hmmmmm.”

Let me know: Do you enjoy watching The Biggest Loser, and do you feel that it motivates you to exercise?

About Becky

I am a personal trainer, lifestyle and weight management consultant, and group fitness instructor living in New York City. My focus is on helping women get into shape, lose weight, and generally live a healthy and happy life.